Gov. Patrick signs fishing registration law

By ASSOCIATED PRESS
November 24, 2009

BOSTON - Gov. Deval Patrick has signed a law requiring state licenses for saltwater fishing in Massachusetts.

The Department of Fish and Game will propose an individual permit fee of $10 to take effect in January. The revenue will be deposited in the state's Marine Recreational Fisheries Development Fund.

The federal government is requiring the registries as a means of measuring non-commercial fishing activity on the nation's coasts. If states don't create their own programs, the federal government will require anglers to register online or by telephone for a free from $15 to $25.

Some critics question the need for a permit to fish in the ocean and have also raised privacy concerns. And they say they suspect low initial fees will be raised once fishermen are registered.

Patrick signed the bill late Monday.

FBC member catches our biggest Tuna yet!

One of our best fisherman hooked the largest fish on record with FBC Dennis. Check out the size of this tuna, over 60 inches! Joe and his son caught this fish mid day Saturday out at Stellie from our 26' Pro-Line Express, Chasin' The Blues!